Jacob Bethell will be absent for the whole of England's forthcoming Test series against Pakistan, while both Ollie Pope and Brydon Carse have secured places in the 16‑man touring party. England are gearing up to get back on the field after a disappointing series loss to New Zealand and the recent departures of head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes. With Joe Root reinstated as captain following Stokes' retirement from international cricket, the side is eager to turn a new page after a turbulent period both on and off the pitch. The new head coach, Stephen Fleming, will not take charge until after the three‑match series, which kicks off at Headingley on 19 August and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket.
Fleming’s involvement in the selection process has already been highlighted by the national selector, Marcus North, who stressed the importance of aligning the squad’s philosophy with the incoming coach’s vision. Bethell suffered a knee injury during England’s One‑Day International series against India in July, an injury that also forced him out of The Hundred competition. The recovery timeline means he will miss the Pakistan Tests as well. Essex wicket‑keeper Jordan Cox has been drafted in to fill the No 3 slot, having earned his Test debut earlier this summer and showing promise in the county circuit.
Ollie Pope, who previously served as vice‑captain under Stokes, and fast‑bowler Brydon Carse return to the Test set‑up for the first time since England’s dismal Ashes tour of Australia last winter. Pope was dropped after the third Ashes Test where he averaged just 20.83 runs across three matches, but his form in domestic cricket has warranted a recall.
Carse, meanwhile, missed the IPL season after a hand injury but is now back in England’s plans. Selector Marcus North explained that Harry Brook was also slated to remain as Root’s deputy, praising his leadership qualities as "incredibly important" for the side.
North added that Sam Curran had been identified as a potential replacement for the all‑rounder role vacated by Stokes; Curran would have been selected if he had been fit. Two‑year‑old Test veteran Dan Lawrence has also been summoned back to the squad, expected to bat at No 6. North highlighted Lawrence’s outstanding season with Surrey, noting his experience, maturity and skill set as ideal for bolstering the middle order.
"Lawrence returns after an exceptional season with Surrey and we believe he has the right blend of experience and talent to complement our batting line‑up," North said. Jordan Cox’s inclusion was described as a "massive opportunity" for the young Essex keeper‑batter.
North praised Cox’s consistent domestic performances, recalling his early years at Kent where he opened the batting in the County Championship. "We wouldn’t slot him at number three if we didn’t trust his ability. He’s a fierce competitor, quietly confident and ready for the challenge," the selector added. North also confirmed that Stephen Fleming was heavily consulted throughout the selection discussions, ensuring that the selectors’ approach remained in sync with the incoming coach’s long‑term plans.
"From the moment he was appointed, I’ve had lengthy conversations with Stephen. It’s crucial that our selection philosophy aligns with his vision for the future of English cricket," North explained.
Former head coach Brendon McCullum, now England’s T20 and ODI coach, was asked on Sky Sports’ The Hundred commentary whether it felt odd not to be involved in the Test squad announcement. He laughed, saying, "I’ve got a bit more time on my hands now. Those four years were great, and now we’re heading in a different direction.
Stephen Fleming will be excellent – he’s a bit like me, but better. He’ll do an amazing job." McCullum praised the ECB’s effort to secure a coach of Fleming’s calibre, noting his global experience and commitment to English cricket.
"We talk every day, we’re close mates, and we have robust conversations. At the end of the day we just want what’s right for English cricket and to set it up for success across all three formats, even if it takes time," he said. The final squad list includes: - Joe Root (Yorkshire – captain) - Jofra Archer (Sussex) - Gus Atkinson (Surrey) - Shoaib Bashir (Derbyshire) - Harry Brook (Yorkshire) - Brydon Carse (Durham) - Ben Duckett (Nottinghamshire) - Matthew Fisher (Surrey) - Dan Lawrence (Surrey) - Ollie Robinson (Sussex) - Josh Tongue (Nottinghamshire) Fans can watch the three‑Test series live on Sky Sports Cricket from 19 August, and streaming options are available through NOW without a contract.
The series represents a crucial rebuilding phase for England as they aim to restore confidence, integrate fresh talent, and lay the foundations for future success across Test, ODI and T20 cricket.